sisters in service: do. good stitches

Welcome to Sisters in Service!

Here we aim to lift, inspire, and motivate, and celebrate the (many!) different ways we can serve our brothers and sisters 

while we're here on earth. Today, let's give a big hip-hooray, 'cause it's Rachel from Stitched in Color!

Rachel has got to be one of the most got-it-together bloggers I know. If you've got a mind for modern quilting, you need to subscribe to her blog. Her quilts are drop-dead gorgeous, her ideas are inspired, and what's more, she knows how to organize lots of people to make a big difference in others' lives. Rachel is the mastermama behind do. Good Stitches, an online quilting bee that has grown to include a whopping 8 circles of sewists! 

Take it away, Rachel...

In a sentence, what's your project?
do. Good Stitches is a virtual quilting bee that creates quilts for people in need through many different charities.

Why is this project important to you?

Because I'm blessed with the time, resources, and passion for quilting, it's important to me to use that blessing to bless others. The online sewing community is filled with generous souls who feel the same way! 

concept + quilting by Natalie :: image source

Have you had any special experiences along the way you'd care to share?
I didn't understand at first that it's the diversity of the creative visions in any given circle that are the real power and excitement behind the quilting bee concept. My favorite quilt (that I've designed) for do. Good Stitches is Love in Wonky Stars. To me this quilt captures that power! It was such a joy to send it to a child through Wrap Them in Love.

concept + quilting by Rachel :: image source

What's your long-term vision for this project?
More circles, more quilts, more charities! Every month or so, we are able to launch new circles when folks step forward to lead as circle hosts and quilters. It takes some organization skills to be a circle host and it takes some quilting skills to be a quilter, but lots of us are capable!

How can I get involved?
While quilts of all styles are wonderful acts of charity, this bee intends to bring together active Flickr-users who enjoy a modern quilt style. If you have some experience with making quilts blocks, you can get involved! You don't need to know how to make all sorts of quilt styles -- directions are included, though basic sewing skills are assumed. You will create blocks from your own fabric stash. To join the wait list, please use this form. We always need more Quilters in order to launch a new circle. So, if you are able to act as a Quilter, please register as one!

concept + quilting by Ara Jane :: image source

You can read more about the guidelines for participating in do. Good Stitches right here.
I am in the "Love" circle and can tell you that it is an amazing bee -- impeccably organized, and I get to learn a cool new block every single month.

You can also drool a little at the d.GS Flickr pool of finished quilts. 

Thanks for coming over, Rachel -- your project is an amazing example 

of what can happen when we all put our heads {and our fabric stashes} together!